How to Change Your New Hampshire Business Name

How to Get a New Business Name

Before changing your business name, there are a few things you need to do in preparation. These steps will explain where to find the information to complete your name change and file the amendment form.

1.) Choose a new business name

As a creative entrepreneur, you may already have a new name in mind. However, like your initial business name, your new name needs to meet a few legal requirements. Under New Hampshire business laws, acceptable business names must:

• Include a word or abbreviation identifying the underlying legal entity (i.e., Corporation, Co., Inc., Ltd. Liability Co., or LLC)
• Be distinguishable from other New Hampshire business names

Finding the right identifying word or abbreviation is a personal choice so long as it correctly identifies your business structure. However, ensuring your potential name is distinguishable from others requires searching thoroughly for existing business registrations and name reservations. Our Business Name Checker can simplify the process.

2.) Gather information for filing your amendment

A name change requires filing an amendment to your business formation documents. Therefore, it’s essential to have the information from your Certificate of Formation (LLCs) or Articles of Incorporation (corporations). Here’s a quick list of the information you’ll need to complete your business name change in New Hampshire:

• The currently registered business name on file with the Corporation Division
• The date the corporate board of directors adopted the amendment
• Signature of the LLC’s manager or member, or the corporation’s board chairman, president, or another officer
• A certification that the corporate board of directors or shareholders properly adopted the amendment 

In addition, be prepared to pay a filing fee. You can find the current filing fees on the New Hampshire Secretary of State’s website.

3.) File your New Hampshire amendment 

You can file online through NH QuickStart when you’re ready to file your amendment. The Corporation Division accepts Discover, MasterCard, Visa, or pre-authorized ACH debit for filing fees. If you want to pay by ACH debit, the pre-authorization process can take up to two weeks. The Corporation Division provides fillable .pdf forms on their website to print and deliver your amendment by mail or at the office in person.

After You Change Your Business Name

After you file your official name change, it’s a good idea to ensure that your business name is consistent across all places where you use it. In addition to changing your name with the Corporation Division, remember to update your name:

• With the bank that services your business checking account or any loans
• On marketing materials like websites, logos, business cards, or letterheads
• With the IRS and New Hampshire Department of Revenue Administration
• On legal documents, including employment contracts and third-party agreements

Taking the time to update your business name will save your business goodwill and prevent confusion later.

We can help

The process of how to change a business name in New Hampshire isn’t complicated. Nonetheless, let us help you complete the name change paperwork with our Amendment Filing Service. Our team of business experts will be here to guide you through every stage of running a business.

For guidance on starting your new business, we offer Business Formation Services for a New Hampshire LLC or a New Hampshire corporation. We’ll help you complete the paperwork and get your business up and running within minutes. We can also help your business maintain good status with our Worry-Free Compliance Service, which includes up to two amendment filings per year.